The Emirates Institution for Advanced Science and Technology (EIAST) shared the success of its DubaiSat-2 launch and the significance of its latest ambitious goal KhalifaSat at the recent '2014 Global Space & Technology Convention (GSTC).

Held in Singapore in the first quarter, GSTC aims to promote the rapidly developing space industry in Asia, which is now estimated to be worth over $258 billion. The growing demand for space-related services and new technology advancement and applications makes the conference even more significant.

Organized under the theme ‘Rise of the Rest,’ the three-day convention highlighted Asia’s critical role in the field of space technology. It also served as a venue for research organizations to showcase their latest space products and design concepts.

Salem Al Marri, the assistant director general for Scientific and Technical Affairs, EIAST, led the delegation that attended the international gathering organized by the Singapore Space & Technology Association (SSTA).

During the convention, EIAST reported developments after the successful launching of DubaiSat-2 its latest satellite in orbit, and EIAST showcased the imagery taken so far by DubaiSat-2.

The team also presented the plans for EIAST’s next mission KhalifaSat, which will be launched into outer space by 2017.  Emirati experts and engineers are involved in the planning and designing of the KhalifaSat programme, which is expected to strengthen the standing of the Arab region in the competitive field of space science.  

SSTA president Jonathan Hung delivered the welcome speech at the event which was followed by industry leaders and key decision makers presenting their reports on various space-related topics.

On its GSTC participation, Al Marri said: "It was a great opportunity for us to show and share with the rest of the world the capabilities and expertise of the UAE in space science. EIAST has been making significant progress over the years in this field through our groundbreaking projects such as DubaiSat-1, DubaiSat-2, and now the KhalifaSat programme."

"Through our projects, we hope to further inspire scientific innovation and technological advancement and sustainable development not just in the Arab region but throughout the rest of the world as well," he added.-TradeArabia News Service